Jaguar E Type 1961-1975

The Jaguar E-Type was introduced at 1961 Geneva Motor Show by Sir William Lyons.The Press Release at the time stipulated the following. No more famous background can be found anywhere than that which lies behind the Jaguar “E” Type “Grand Touring” models. Developed from the famous “C” and “D” Type Sports-Racing cars with their illustrious records of successes on the race tracks of the world, the “E” Type cars are presented as fast, elegant and luxuriously appointed road vehicles incorporating very many features derived from the vast store of experience gained in international competitive events.Thus, the monocoque form of construction featuring a steel stressed shell body stems directly from Jaguar sports-racing car design, whilst an entirely new development is the unique system of independent rear suspension which is the result of many years of research and trial.The power unit is the world famous 3.8 litre twin overhead camshaft XK’S’ type engine which produces 265 hp and which offers a performance in which ultra rapid acceleration and high maximum speeds are matched by superlative braking power (disc brakes) and the highest degree of controllability. Together these attributes invest the car with an extraordinary high safety factor.

The body design was conceived by aerodynamic expert Malcolm Sayer who was involved in the ‘D’ Type sports-racing car. The Jaguar E Type was offered to the public in two forms: as an open sports car – with or without detachable hardtop, and as a coupe. In both cases, the cars are two seaters and except for minor items of detail, their chassis and body specifications are very closely related. Claimed top speed at the time was 150 mph (241 kph).

The Jaguar E Type evolved in 1964 with the adoption of a more powerful 4.235 cc engine. The Serie II was introduced in 1968 without headlight covers and with more prominent bumpers while the engine was somewhat muzzled by pollution regulations. The last versions appeared in 1971 with a V12 engine. The Jaguar E Type was produced during 14 years and more than 70.000 units were made.